The Portuguese boss does believe, however, that Ibrahimovic will return before the year is out, but added it is “just a feeling”.

Despite the half a dozen personnel facing various spells on the sidelines, the 54-year-old was keen to claim this is a normal situation to be in.

“The injury process normally is a process of some guys get injuries, some guys recover from injury, unless we lose completely the balance, this happens to almost every team”.

“Unless a team has a phenomenal season where everything goes well and not even a broken nail happens to a player,” added Jose.

The Terriers welcome United to Yorkshire for their first meeting since 1971, in a contest that saw Sir Bobby Charlton, Denis Law and George Best net in the same fixture for the final time.

It is sure to a raucous atmosphere on Saturday afternoon, one which Mourinho acknowledged in front of the press.

“The place will be buzzing, the people will be happy to have a big club playing in their city, in their stadium, and it will be a big motivation for them, we know clearly that but I think we are going to be ready.”

The confidence is evidently there for Mourinho and his side but he was quick to play down the prospect of a comfortable encounter.

“Everybody knows the Premier League and what it means to play newly-promoted teams. Every team in the Premier League is good, every team thinks and thinks well that they can win every match and against every opponent,” said Jose regarding tomorrow’s match-up.

Despite their dip in form, Huddersfield will be fresh and well-prepared for United’s visit, in what will be a test of the current roster’s situation for the visitors.

Having played and travelled to Portugal on only Wednesday, the squad depth will be needed, with Phil Jones, Ashley Young and Anthony Martial likely contenders to return to the starting line-up.

United will hope to continue their fine start to the season and extend their unbeaten run with the journey east, with the away support sure to provide backing for their team at the weekend.

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